I use the pack for weekend-long amateur backpacking trips from my friends and family. The pack was a definite upgrade from the older exposed-frame packs I was accustom to. I loved how comfy the frame and straps were - the pack just hugs you. This pack had so many great features, I cannot list them all. The only thing they didn't think of, was building-in rain gear directly on the pack.

I bought this pack for my upcoming thru-hike attempt of the Appalachian trail. I spent many hours researching packs and reading users reviews and all that jazz. Regardless of what anyone says, the best way to find the pack for you is to simply try it on. While this pack what a bit heavier than what I was original aiming for, as soon as I threw it on my back and strapped down, I immediatley felt good about it. I would much rather have a durable and comfortable pack that weighs a bit more than to sacrafice such important needs for a ultra light pack. I tried a UlA pack my roommate purchased for the trip and there is deffinitley a world of a differnce between that and the baltoro. While I love the idea of having a ultra light pack, I love the idea more of finishing my thru-hike with a pack that I know will last without breaking my back. The gregory is a little heavier simply because of its suspension system. And that system is what makes the gregoy pack simply amazing. I have some decent back issues and most packs i tried on pulled my shoulders back, leaving a gap inbetween my back and the pack, thus causing me to feel much more on my back than i should. Yes it is a backpack, but most of the weight should be resting on your hips. The hip harness on the baltoro is second to none. It is thick, comfy, and best of all adjustable. As your hips move, the harness moves to allow for natural movement. All in all, I feel good with the pack on back and truly believe it is the best option for me. Like I said earlier however, certianly take the time to try on as many packs as you can before settling for something. If you do so, make sure you try the baltoro though, because you will have a better understanding of the positive differences it provides.